Subcommittee approves definition for "basic health plan" to allow short-term coverage

The Tennessee House Insurance Subcommittee unanimously adopted an amendment and advanced House Bill 2503 to the full insurance committee on March 25.

The sponsor explained HB 2503 adds a statutory definition of a "basic health plan," enabling the state to provide a short-term, basic health coverage product on the open marketplace for individuals who do not qualify for public benefits but need temporary coverage for a brief period before obtaining traditional coverage.

An amendment (drafting code 015015) was offered, moved, seconded and approved by voice vote; the clerk later announced a 6–0 vote on the measure in subcommittee. The chair said the bill "goes to insurance full."

The sponsor asked committee members for questions; none were raised after the explanation. The bill will proceed to the full House insurance committee.